Skechers Shape-Ups™, MBT™ (Masai Barefoot Technology) and Reebok EasyTone™ are the latest rage in exercise shoes. The shoemakers all tout health claims for these shoes ranging from increasing calorie burn to helping relieve knee and back pain. The common feature of all of them is an essentially unstable sole design using a […]

If you experience recurring low back pain and your doctor has ruled out underlying conditions, such as arthritis, it might be time to see a physical therapist. A 2006 study in the journal Spine, found that, at any given time, approximately one quarter of Americans report experiencing low-back pain within the past three months. The […]

Regular exercise strengthens muscles that help stabilize your lower back and prevent common occasional back pain. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of exercise per week. Almost any regular exercise such as walking, jogging or swimming will greatly enhance your chances of maintaining a pain-free […]

You probably know someone who has had a rotator cuff injury. It is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. How do you know if you have a rotator cuff injury? Here are some signs to watch for: Shoulder pain Difficulty raising the arms above […]

Many winter and spring sports can take a toll on shoulders. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons most shoulder problems involve the muscles, ligaments and tendons rather than the shoulder bones. Rick Jusko, PT, owner/director of Seattle Hill Physical Therapy, says knowing the type of injury most common to your sport and strengthening […]

Here are some easy shoulder exercises that you can do to strengthen your shoulder muscles and prevent injuries. Basic Shoulder Strengthening Attach elastic tubing to a doorknob or other stationary structure. Facing the tubing, stand far enough away to begin stretching the tubing. Now gently pull the elastic tubing toward your body, keeping the elbows […]

The weather service is predicting a better than average snowfall with the La Nina weather pattern, and skiers are eager to hit the slopes. Nothing is worse, however, than having your season cut short by injury. To avoid twisted knees and other pains, Rick Jusko, PT, owner/director of Seattle Hill Physical Therapy, says preseason conditioning […]

Snowboarding is one of the 10 sport and recreational activities causing children injuries severe enough to merit emergency medical attention, according to the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). “Ski injury experts agree that snowboarding carries a slightly higher risk of injury than traditional downhill skiing,” said Dr. Bruce Bonanno, an emergency physician and member […]

Maybe it’s been a few years since you hit the slopes and you’ve decided to dust off your skis. Wait! Preparing for ski season properly will almost certainly prevent problems. Have Rick evaluate your joint integrity. Any lingering pain along a joint line or the front of the knee can signal trouble. “Pain inhibits strength,” […]

Seattle Hill Physical Therapy Owner/Director Rick Jusko, PT sees lots of injuries caused by yard work. “People are cold, they’re stiff and they don’t want to kneel down so they bend at the waist and yank on plants and hurt their backs. They prune with their arms way above the head, which can cause neck […]